Philemon 1:7

For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother. (Philemon 1:7)

Three points:

1. Great Joy

This didn't come from something they did; it came from something that someone else did. This someone, Philemon, was going out of his way to help others. The help he was giving was to refresh the heart of other believers. Joy is the heart-felt emotion of pleasure, satisfaction, sweetness. Joy can be felt in giving as well as receiving. Showing loving kindness to others and seeing that they are comforted. Truly, the Lord Jesus said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

2. Consolation

Consolation here is comfort and encourage. "Come on brother; come on sister, you can do it. Keep going. Keep the faith. Let's pray together. Need help to finish the joy, then let me help you." Are we doing this?

3. Refresh

The help he was giving was to refresh the heart of other believers. Refresh is the same idea of taking a nap or the refreshment that comes from a good night's sleep. Our hearts grow weary from the things we face; we need others who will minister to us refreshment--an encouraging, comforting word. Let's start today.